Mayor’s Censorship Bid Blocked by Tribunal in Press Freedom Win

Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo — The Electoral Tribunal of Quintana Roo (Teqroo) unanimously ruled that Isla Mujeres Mayor Atenea Gómez Ricalde attempted to censor critical press coverage by filing a complaint alleging gender-based political violence. The tribunal upheld an earlier decision by the Quintana Roo Electoral Institute (IEQROO), which dismissed the mayor’s request for precautionary measures to block reports on irregularities in her administration.

The tribunal affirmed that the journalistic content in question is protected under constitutional freedom of expression, as it did not meet the legal criteria for gender-based political violence outlined in Jurisprudence 21/2018 of the Federal Electoral Tribunal (TEPJF). The ruling emphasized that critical reporting does not constitute violence unless it demonstrates intentional harm based on gender, obstruction of official duties, or a systemic pattern of discrimination.

A Pattern of Political Tactics

The case places Gómez among a growing list of public figures accused of weaponizing gender-based claims to silence scrutiny. Similar tactics have been employed by Campeche Governor Layda Sansores and others, raising concerns about the misuse of legal protections to stifle accountability journalism.

Alleged Irregularities in Question

Gómez sought to suppress reports detailing several controversies, including:

  • The alleged sale of the municipal airstrip to a private consortium for a real estate project.
  • The appointment of her cousin, Hernán Magaña Vargas, to a key municipal position.
  • A controversial vehicle leasing scheme costing nearly 100 million pesos, criticized for opacity and inflated costs.
  • Ties between her husband, Jorge Martín Álvarez, and local public works contracts.

Additional reports involved the logging of trees in the La Gloria neighborhood, excessive fees for public lighting (DAP)—challenged by the National Human Rights Commission—and accusations of misinformation following a May 27 shooting that left two dead. Critics also accused municipal police of manipulating narratives to shield criminal groups.

Political Shifts and Scrutiny

Gómez’s political trajectory has drawn scrutiny. After leaving the PAN party in 2022, she joined Morena in 2023 and has recently aligned with the Labor Party (PT), fueling questions about her ideological consistency.

Broader Implications

The Teqroo’s decision reinforces protections for press freedom in Quintana Roo, setting a precedent that accountability journalism cannot be suppressed by unsubstantiated legal claims. The case may proceed to the Xalapa chamber of the Federal Electoral Tribunal if Gómez appeals, but the ruling sends a clear message: gender-based legal protections must not be exploited to silence criticism.

Debate Over Gender and Accountability

The failed censorship attempt has reignited debates about the misuse of legal frameworks designed to protect women in politics. Activists and communication experts warn that trivializing gender-based violence claims risks undermining legitimate efforts to combat corruption and abuse of power.


Discover more from Riviera Maya News & Events

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Discover more from Riviera Maya News & Events

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading